While large corporations have been the main forerunners in using virtualization, some IT corporations are now focusing specifically on virtual models for small and medium-sized businesses. IBM is one of these companies. Their virtual platform is intended to

consolidate server capacity, be more cost-effective, and save energy. IBM offers this through their PowerVM Express Edition which is useful for businesses of any size and works well with most operating systems. PowerVM can then be used in conjunction with IBM Power6 processor-based servers and customers can create up to 10 virtual platforms per processor in a single system. Since IBM is trying to cater to small businesses, the price is also smaller.

The PowerVM also offers some special features such as:

• A Shared Dedicated Capacity Unit (CPU) which allows optimal system utilization so that the processors can “share” the work and none get too overloaded with data.

• Multiple Share Processor Pools which can potentially help reduce the cost of licensing costs based on processors.

• Virtual I/O Server (VIOS) designed for client partitions. This helps reduce client costs because there is no need for dedicated network adapters or disk adapters, as well as disk drives. It is also compatible with all three of the PowerVM editions.

• An Integrated Virtualization Manager (IVM) that lets the user consolidate workloads though a browser on their computer. Using it does not require a hardware management console and the user can manage virtual storage and Ethernet.

• Shared Processor Logical Partitioning (LPAR) is another feature of PowerVM that gives clients the power to virtually divide the machine into partitions and change the allocation of the system resources. This is not limited by one virtual partition since it has the ability to create multiple virtual partitions to a granularity of 1/100 of a CPU. Since the processor’s resources are fully shared, the physical server can run at high levels of utilization.

• Live Partition Mobility is another great feature because you can move an AIX or Linux partition while it’s in use from one physical server to another. This is very helpful because your work doesn’t have to be interrupted.

• Finally, Active Memory Sharing can relocate memory between LPARs depending on their level of activity. This is a great tool for getting the most out of physical memory and it helps optimize hardware resources.

Since we are entering a “green” age, now more than ever it is important for businesses to cut not only costs but also negative environmental impact. Virtualization will be a key player because it allows for businesses to run on less power, less cooling, and results in increased productivity. Bottom line is that it’s green for the environment and it’s green for your companies’ pocket.

Contact Us!